Pacific
Definition
The Pacific refers to the Pacific Ocean, the largest and deepest of Earth's oceanic divisions. In AP US History, it often relates to America's expansion and influence across this region.
Analogy
Think of the Pacific as a giant playground. Just like how kids want to explore every corner of their playground, countries (including the US) wanted to explore and exert influence over different parts of the Pacific.
Related terms
Manifest Destiny: This is a 19th-century doctrine or belief that the expansion of the US throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.
Imperialism: This is a policy or ideology by a nation to extend its power by gaining territories or establishing dominance over other nations.
Spanish-American War: A war fought between Spain and the United States in 1898 where America gained several territories including Guam and Puerto Rico.
"Pacific" appears in:
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